NEW PENALTIES SLAM BRAKES ON PHONE USE IN CARS

19-2-2007

Arguments over the use of mobile phones in cars have raged since it was made illegal to hold a mobile phone while driving several years ago. Though some argue that using a phone on the move is a necessity, statistics back the argument of those in favour of the ban, showing that using a hand-held phone while driving slows reactions by 50% when compared to normal driving and by 30% when compared to being drunk.

NEW PENALTIES SLAM BRAKES ON PHONE USE IN CARS

Rob Kenley - Head of Mobiles

Hands-free is NOT optional! Forum user hits out at use of phones in cars. Read the post in full and offer your opinion.

Arguments over the use of mobile phones in cars have raged since it was made illegal to hold a mobile phone while driving several years ago. Though some argue that using a phone on the move is a necessity, statistics back the argument of those in favour of the ban, showing that using a hand-held phone while driving slows reactions by 50% when compared to normal driving and by 30% when compared to being drunk.

Regardless of your views on the topic the fact is that new penalties will be implemented as of February 27, 2007, with the current fine for using a hand-held phone while driving increasing from £30 to £60, and with drivers caught out receiving three penalty points on their licence. There is an ultimate fine of £1,000 for repeated driving offences. Even businesses will be penalised – if you are an employer you can be prosecuted if you require employees to make or receive calls while driving. The clampdown seems likely to work with more than 60% of Rate Alert readers saying the new laws will curb their phone use in last week’s poll. For the results, click here.

However, for those to whom using a phone while on the move is an essential, there are ways to use your phone with a variety of different solutions. Hands-free kits will be the focus of most manufacturers’ campaigns with prices ranging from £4.99-£99.99. Another option is to make use of a Bluetooth earpiece or buy a Bluetooth handset.